Unsettled 21st century

A Mawaz, Dhaka
Civilization is changing slowly but surely, during this 21st century the first and the third worlds are under continuous stress, as the rate of change is rising: and the global problems multiply. There is too much global garbage, to be carted away. There are several mileposts: the 9/11: the rise of the religious extremists outfits; the current US leadership by an unknown Obama: the sudden collapse of the US dollar (the only global currency); many LDCs turning into disabled states; the G-20 summit; the limping of the UN organs: the split in the IAEA. Now the rich countries have more problems than the poorer states. The South's problems are well known [poverty levels, HR, birth and death rates; medical facilities; lack of micro-credit; and many others]. The G-20 failed to come to a consensus; guns cannot control violence and political approaches are lacking in sincerity. The new spotlight is on South Asia (where we live). The mighty US cannot afford to operate too many military fronts. Afghanistan, Iran, N Korea, Iraq and Pakistan and Bangladesh are under the magnifying glass. The general elections in India (ally of the Americans) might be a Sabbatical experience for many. It appears that now Islam is under severe test--lack of communication between the rich and the marginalized. First the inner faith: then the cosmetic show!